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Tag: #BeInspiredtoInspire

Be You ~ A Writer Lost

Published by Autumn Brooke on March 9, 2019

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This morning I woke up with the pull to write, to be honest, I haven’t felt that need for the past few weeks. It shouldn’t seem so surprising for a writer, but I’ve taken a step back from not only posting my words but even free creative writing of my own. There has been a lot going on personally in my life and my words were reflecting a tone that I did not want to portray.

Within the last month I am more rested, my days of recuperation nearly behind, and yet, the silent whisper of words to share was gone. The voices of characters demanding for their story to be told was non- existent, I was/am afraid that I had lost my passion for writing.

The fear grew stronger, as did my anxiety  the longer it took for me to put pen to paper. I did try, but there just seemed like I had nothing to say. I certainly didn’t have anything worth anyone’s time to read. It got worse, as people begin to ask when I would write again. For some, the question was out of genuine curiosity as my site was dark, for others it was concern, knowing I am happiest when writing.

For me; Anxiousness and Self-Doubt was replaced by personal judgement and discouragement. I felt as if I was disappointing those invested in my future. I felt like a failure as a writer, and a fraud as I could no longer hear the call…. The struggle was real.

I knew the writing tips and tricks. The mantras, positive thinking, how to “Get Out” of Writers Block; but I had internalized all the negativity. I now read all other’s posts, blogs, books and convinced myself that I was wasting my time. I was never going to be as good as ‘those’ writers. I just didn’t have what it takes.

This morning, thoughts invaded my sleep, with a realization. My claim for AutumnBrookeOnline is to write from Heart, Mind and Soul, whatever that may be. I don’t have to be perfect, or even interesting, (although it helps). I just need to be me! Maybe I won’t have anything profoundly important to say, but if I feel it, I can write it and in my experience, your words may touch someone; today, tomorrow, or next year; but it is “You Being You” that makes the difference. Don’t focus on all the rest and find your inner strength within, only be exactly who you are….. that is when the greatness begins!

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Selfie Syndrome

Published by Autumn Brooke on June 23, 2018

Remember these…..  this app was popular for a month as it would take your picture and convert your face into that of a Cover Model. Several of my friends and family used it to share what they “Could” look like, some even made it their social media profile pic for a while. I was curious and played around with it too, but didn’t post any of these. Yesterday was #NationalSelfieDay and I did take a selfie to post on my facebook page in order to make a point for today’s blog.

When I took the above images, I kept them because I had a thought about how focused many of us have become with our image. A desire to appear more than what we are in our physical appearance. I know that I am guilty of it, as proven in my selfie post yesterday. I took atleast half a dozen photos with different angles and lighting so that I would look more attractive. I did not use any filters such as IG, snapchat, or an editing tool, but I didn’t need to because there is a selfie softening filter automatically. I was actually unaware of this until it occurred to me that I always looked better when taking a selfie then if someone took a picture of me for an event.

The pictures in the app used above don’t make me feel more beautiful, they actually cause my self image to feel lower because I fear that I should be doing something different in order to achieve model status. I should learn better make up techniques, drink more water, have more facials…. maybe even think of using injections or sculpting.  This is not who I want to be or what I would want to promote to anyone who may look up to me. I do not ever want to be so vain that I would be willing to undergo a knife just to be “Socially Acceptable” in today’s day and age. To fit what the world as decided a middle aged women should look like.

I don’t let the world choose how I should live. I tend to lean towards the conservative, I am stricter than most in how I raise my children, I hold high morals and values that are certainly not popular in society, so why do I worry so much in how my physical appearance may be rated?

I guess in writing this, I realize that I don’t have an answer or solution so much, as it is just my observation. However, with realization, I can and will make an effort to change my thought process so that I may live easier. Be carefree enough to not avoid the camera, although I tend to be the one in the pictures with the closed eyes, or laughing too big. I want my children to know that it is okay to be themselves and not strive to be what only “some” consider perfect. I will still take Selfies, but I hope that now I may be happy with that First shot and not need to Filter every photo.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and I know that I am made in “His Image” and in knowing that….  I know that I am Beautiful just being Me, and so are you!

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World Book Day

Published by Autumn Brooke on April 23, 2018

Designated by UNESCO (United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization) first held in 1995 and now celebrated in more than 100 countries world wide, World Book Day is more than a Celebration of Reading.  It is a day that recognizes Authors, Illustrators, lovers of Books, including but not limited to Publishers, Book Sellers, and my favorite, Libraries. Those that recognize the magical importance of books that bypass generations and cultures alike. A bridge between young and old, a common ground of a shared world created by identifiable characters that create an adventure that stands the test of time.

In the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland World Book Day is recognized on the first Thursday of March to avoid clashing with the Easter holiday and St. George’s Day. Throughout the rest of the world it is celebrated on the 23 of April, an already established date among literary admirers as the birth date of William Shakespeare and the death of Miguel de Cervantes.  On both of these days the importance of World Book Day remains the same and that is to encourage future readers, to provide a book to every child which may be the first book that they own.  Free books or vouchers are offered at various locations, events that unite children with their favorite authors to possibly give them a dream bigger than their own.

Besides promoting reading and publishing there is one more important aspect of this day which is to recognize that the protection of intellectual property through the means of Copyright.  The Copyright.gov website describes it as, “Copyright, a form of intellectual property law, protects original works of authorship including literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works, such as poetry, novels, movies, songs, computer software, and architecture” first coming into a treaty signed in 1886.  Even as I may wait for certain writings to be published, I know that there is always a sense of well being when I receive a Copyright certificate in the mail, knowing that my work is recognized as my own and protected as such.

I will feel remiss if I don’t admit that I was not aware of this date of celebration, but now that I am, I am going to make sure that I became an advocate and help spread awareness. I hope that all of you will also find a way to play a part to #PromoteLiteracy and #ReadingforAllAges.  #ShareaStory it’s #WorldBookDay

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DesignProof – Digital Design Tournament

Published by Autumn Brooke on April 10, 2018

This week I had the opportunity to attend a competition between Graphic Designers. It was put on by DesignProof at Bitwise Industries. I must admit to being impressed from the moment I arrived. Met at the door by two students that are welcoming as they place a wristband if over 21 yrs, for “complimentary” beer, and ask if you are familiar with the facility. Being my first visit I was offered a tour to of Bitwise.  Walls are covered in an eye catching graffiti style, there is a cafe, meeting space, Fed Ex, a small shop to repair screens and offer accessories for digital needs. Arrays of outlets in various seating locations, to catch up on homework for the many classes offered on site. It is a great location with so much to offer. You can read more about them here, and you should… http://bitwiseindustries.com/story/.

There was so much to do, see, and read, but with only thirty minutes until the start of the competition, I was inclined to partake of the refreshments especially after learning that it was accompanied by a Polish Sausage wrapped in a homemade bun, with the most delicious fresh relish provided by Mabel’s kitchen, where everything is made fresh sweet or savory. I heard stories about their homemade cinnamon buns and triple chocolate brownies, so I know I will need to make another visit to experience their decadence.  Menu items, hours, and more can be found on their website…. http://mabelskitchenfresno.com/.

People watching, talking, sharing in food and drink, I was fully satisfied and happy that I had come out to experience a new locale that I must have driven passed too many times to count. I was then reminded that there was still more…. the competition… my reason for attending, free entertainment. With minutes to spare, I made my way to the theater for a good seat. Yes, there is a theater with stage, stadium seating, and screen within Bitwise. It just kept getting better and better, especially after being stopped on my way in by another student that invited me to play a game of Plinko.  Let a golf ball roll down a decline and if it lands in the middle lane, I may choose a prize. To my delight, I now had dessert too as I settled with ease into my seat and was introduced to the contestants.

The competition was a timed event of sixty minutes between three designers. Casey Peck, Konnor Cantrell, Michael Vasquez that were chosen from many applicants that submitted five design pieces to the host DesignProof.  Their mission was to be the one with the best portrait at the end of sixty minutes only being allowed to use one stock photo, three brushes and three fonts. The design program was Adobe CC Design Suite and their computer screens were shared on the main large screen for the audience. During the time there was a series of raffles and trivia questions to keep us engaged with the opportunity to win more prizes. Time passed quickly, a short lull as four judges deliberated before making the final call to determine the winner.  1st Place was won by Konnor Cantrell, @lithium_is_salty who used a mannequin photo, manipulating it into a bright gradient piece that screamed abstract, definitely patterned after the trend for 2018.  The 2nd place spot was delivered to Michael Vasquez, @mikeysart840 for is take on Paco the dog. You can see more of his Aztec style on his attached Instagram page. Casey Peck,  @eyecandydesigns inspired by her apparel and accessory designs that delight women and little girls alike took home the 3rd place prize.

It was a fun event, one that I would definitely attend again. This was only the second competition of what we hope will continue to be an annual event held by DesignProof.  I was intrigued by their desire to inspire not only the artists but the community.  When asked Who Is Design Proof? Their statement is simple, “We are a group of designers, web designers, and digital artists who want to up the creative notch and see talent flourish in California. DesignProof seeks to bring together creatives that have a passion for design, eye for creative expression, and are generally awesome and see what happens.” Why a Tournament? It was their response to this question that made me not only a fan but a supporter, “We want to celebrate the people who make things pretty. They are tinkering, deliberate minds who work late nights lit by little more than the glow of their computer monitor. We look for the best emerging talent and showcase artists and their creative process for the education, excitement and inspiration of an onlooking audience.” More on DesignProof and the Tournament can be read here, http://designproof.org/.

As a creative myself, I love knowing that there are more people out there working hard to help others showcase their best selves and their passions. It is up to all of us to work together to make our community, our world beautiful and live a life inspired that sustains us to be able to continue to create. Please Like, Follow, Share and lets continue to work together to spread beauty in all forms.

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Rain Cloud

Published by Autumn Brooke on March 30, 2018

The kids are gone this week for Spring Break and I had a list a mile long that I planned to accomplish not needing to be on their time. As any parent can relate kids not only come with a lot of responsibilities but with a massive schedule. With them away, I was not bound to a routine and planned to put in the work; after I took one day to myself to fully relax in the silence, besides, Sunday is Rest Day. Tomorrow is the last day of the week and I have only managed to cross two items off my list. I woke up this morning chastising myself for my lack of commitment, but I don’t feel a sense of failure, more like the whole week passed me by in a daze. I sort of floated through each day barely eating more than one meal and spending a lot of time in reflection. I have been forced to admit that it is grief and sorrow that haunts me. I knew that I was sad, but I never expected the loss of a pet to be so traumatic.

On the 15th of March we lost our family dog, Cali, after ten years. We spent a lot of time deciding on the “right” dog for our family and she was a perfect fit; calm with the boys when they were small and protective too. About four years ago I knew that she was not getting the activity and attention she needed in our home. Those before mentioned schedules took too much of our time, so we made the difficult decision to have her live with the Grandparents. Although not ideal, she now had another dog to play with and we were still able to visit with her. It never ceased to amaze me how Cali never forgot us, always greeting us with joy and excitement. It was extremely hard to hear that she was losing her fight and passed a few days later.

The reality of losing Cali only brought home the fact that we would soon be losing Rain, our cat of eighteen years. We had expected that he would pass a few times over the years. He was slow to move, losing weight, hearing and sight were also diminishing, but he would rally and prove us all wrong. Chasing birds outside, play fighting with the other house-cats, and demanding of food. However, Rain did start spending more time sleeping in isolation and I told the kids to say their goodbyes before they left for the week. On Monday, the 26th, I was forced to call the kids to give their last words of love, as I held Rain while he took his final breath.

We have lost pets before, which is why I never imagined that this would be as painful but having Rain before I even had children has made it different. His presence is noticeably missing in the house. I have even caught myself looking for him when I feed the other cats or when closing up at night, making sure he isn’t left outside. He was there to purr and settle my spirit when writers block would take over. I depended on him in a way I never realized until he was no longer here. I have heard many refer to their pets as fur babies and I understand that concept better now, but for me, Rain was more of a best friend and confidant, we really grew up together, raised the kids together.

I haven’t yet shed tears over this loss, even without the children here, I am so use to being strong for them that I push all my feelings over a situation away. I am sure that is not healthy, or the “right” way to process emotions, but that is what this post is essentially for. There is no right or wrong way in how people deal with tragic events, I didn’t even bother to share my pet’s passing on facebook, until I decided that it really is words of heart, mind, and soul. I admit that I am deeply hurt and expect that I will be crying right alongside my kids when we put Rain to rest. We have had kitten burials, a dramatic fish funeral, I think there was even one for an ant farm, but this will be one that stays with all of us. A pet that will never be forgotten, a real member of our family. We love you Rain!

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First Day of Spring

Published by Autumn Brooke on March 21, 2018

I have not written a blog in quite a while so it seems fitting that I would choose to write today, the first day of Spring.  I have a few times that I wrote about the rain, or even my own name in relation to the season itself, but Spring is my favorite time of the year. There is something so refreshing about the way that the earth has its own rebirth, making all seem fresh and new. We feel it so much as individuals, that we too, have a Spring Cleaning ritual, the talk of Summer coming and needing to renew our gym association for those upcoming bathing suit days. Be it our homes, our bodies, or our lives, the world takes on the importance of washing away the old and preparing for the new. This is important for all of us, although I don’t know that we always realize it. We take part in it for New Year Resolutions but many find those cliche, I admit that I don’t make New Years resolutions but we all unknowingly participate in the beginning of Spring.

For many it may be unintentional but we all need a chance to change or reevaluate what didn’t work the past year and start anew. The changing of the season with all its new growth helps us to do that, although many unfortunately don’t take notice of their surroundings. The beauty in our every day life that truly makes us who we are, but with such undeserved recognition. I need to spend moments outside everyday, I thrive off the sights and smell of nature. I make sure that my children spend at least 30-60 minutes outside each day, longer when the weather is warmer. I hope that they will grow to love it as I do and share the inspiration with those around them.

Today I woke to the sound of rain and although I love the rain, I was initially saddened. It seems that winter is lasting a little longer this year and I miss my warm, sunny days.  Taking a moment to enjoy the freshly washed black top and listen to the droplets fall from the leaves of the tree, I could see the buds on the branches that need the water to bloom; to look like the tree across the street with the many white blossoms glistening like snowflakes against the deep blue in the sky. Next to it was the tree that I swear looked bare yesterday but now was a radiant green with new leaves adorning its stems. My grass was deeper, the soil darker for the flowers I know are to come in the next few weeks.

We have the benefit of spending each day living in an ever changing painting of life and we too, as people need to remember that our own lives are not singular but part of a constant fluidity that makes the world go round. Don’t let any moment of the beauty of the world, others or yourself pass you by.  Spring is just the beginning!

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All’s Not Lost

Published by Autumn Brooke on January 26, 2018

The rain falling across the window pane matched the tears in her heart. She refused to actually cry and let teardrops fall from her eyes, but she felt them all the same. The harsh cruel words repeating over and over, it was impossible to erase them from her mind. It was painful but she needed to grieve for what was and what could have been and then let it go. It wasn’t easy, but nothing worth achieving ever is, or so they say. This wasn’t the first time and it wouldn’t be the last but she refused to go down this dark road again, it wasn’t healthy. She almost didn’t make it back the last time. Shaking her head to try to clear the negativity she forced herself to get up. A silent scream of “Just Move” took over her being. Go for a walk in the rain, meet the kids at the bus stop, knock on the neighbor’s door and see if she would like some coffee. Do something, anything, she begged herself but it was of no use. She watched herself sit there staring as the rain washed down the glass. It was as if she was trapped inside her own body, the feelings of hurt, guilt, worthlessness weighing her down in a bed of nothingness. She was trying so hard to free herself from the mental chains but they were too heavy.  Her children came home from school, excitedly talking about the events of the day and she acknowledged them with vacant eyes.  She eventually did move, but more as a robot, following the routine of making dinner for her family, greeting her husband, allowing herself to become lost within her own mind. As the days passed the silent scream for help grew dim as those closest to her were unaware that she was trapped in a mental prison. Retreating behind a wall of fake smiles, empty hugs, and meaningless words became normal, as did the tears flooding her heart. 

Maybe some of you can relate to this story from personal experience or you recognize some of the signs in a friend or family member.  Depression is a serious mental health issue that can lead to suicide in 1 out of 10 people.  It is often not recognized by many as the person doesn’t appear sick and may even seem social to most, however, that isn’t always the case day by day or hour by hour. Depression doesn’t discriminate by race, gender, or age but you can make a difference. Be actively involved if you suspect that someone might be struggling and find them help before it’s too late. Be kind, gentle, and supportive because what they feel is very real and your words or your presence may be all they need at that moment.

“You can #BeThe1 To help someone in crisis. You don’t have to be a mental health professional to help someone in your life that may be struggling. Learn the Lifeline’s 5 steps that you can use to help a loved one that may be in crisis.” http://www.bethe1to.com

“The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We’re committed to improving crisis services and advancing suicide prevention by empowering individuals, advancing professional best practices, and building awareness.”  https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org  or Call 1-800-273-8255

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Keeping History Alive

Published by Autumn Brooke on January 12, 2018

This past Sunday, January 7th was the 75th anniversary of the Golden Globes.  Surprisingly there was not a lot of fuss made over the fact that it was a significant anniversary but I believe that was due to the attention given to the #MeToo and #TimesUp campaign.  The acceptance speeches typically filled with gratitude and thanks were instead used to advocate women equality.  Although inspirational, that is not what I found most interesting about the awards.  What really impressed me were how many nominations there were for feature films and television shows that are paying tribute to people and events of the past.  I have a passion for educating our future generations about the details of our rich history and to have these characters and stories be recognized as some of the best in entertainment is very exciting to me.   Some of those that were nominated were Darkest Hour, Dunkirk, The Crown, Handmaids Tale, and Mudbound.  All are based on true accounts of real people and events.  To imagine the extraordinary circumstances that people lived through puts my life into perspective.  I am forced to realize that my daily struggles fail to compare to those that have had such an impact that their stories are still being told years later.  The likelihood of me ever doing anything remotely as influential as those shared in these few stories is pretty much non-existent but I do hope to contribute in my own way to our world.  As a writer that strives to Keep History Alive, I also use real events and people to influence my work.  Creating characters of those that have already lived through the remarkable and are just waiting to share their experience.  Actor Gary Oldman won a Golden Globe Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture, Drama with his portrayal of British Prime Minister, Sir Winston Churchill in the film, ‘Darkest Hour’.  In Oldman’s acceptance speech he stated; “I’m very proud of ‘The Darkest Hour’. It illustrates that words and actions can change the world.”  I will continue to write, to share my words with the world so that however big or small, I too, can make an impact to create change in our world.

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Our Truest Life

Published by Autumn Brooke on December 27, 2017

“Our truest life is when we are in dreams… Awake.”

I heard this quote by Henry David Thoreau just the other day and couldn’t help but ponder on how brilliant a statement it was and wonder why we, society, fail to realize how truly “good” life really is.  We are headed into the New Year of 2018, so like most I am reflective as well as focused on the future.  I would like to say that this year has been unusual for me, but I tend to live my life on the road less traveled; however, I can admit that this was an unexpected Christmas.  I was not focused on the holiday because my boys were going to be with their father this year, until 3 days before Christmas and plans changed.  I was rushing around like a crazy lady, trying to create Christmas Magic in our home to give a memory to remember.  What I failed to realize was that I was so focused on the commercial aspect that I didn’t stop to give real meaning to the day.  Please don’t misunderstand, I only gave the boys two gifts each and the continual reminder of why we celebrate Christmas, but as a mother, in not planning on them being here with me, I felt stressed and uneasy on not being prepared.  (It’s a Mommy thing) Christmas came and went, the boys seemed to be grateful and happy.

The feelings for me have carried over as we prepare to celebrate the upcoming New Year.   Always a difficult time of the year because my cousin, Sarah, passed on that witching hour, what I have come to realize was 5 years ago.  She holds a special place in my heart as my first girl cousin, and we had recently began to reconnect as I made plans to move back to Fresno that same year.  She was too young, too beautiful, and her children are only raised by the great memories we share so that they may know and remember their mother.  Then I think on my mother that passed a short year later and how I was blessed with having her for my entire childhood.  This weighs heavy on my heart and then I read through social media to find friends suffering the same burdens.  Many are grieving for past loved ones, some fresh and new.  The hands of time do not stop for the holidays, life is an unexpected blessing and we need to cherish it as such.

This brings me back to the quote.  Our Truest Life…. I love that word True.  What is it that makes or gives you, your truest life?  For me it would be Love.  I fail in so many ways every day, but as long as I can put my sons to bed knowing that they feel secure in my love, then I feel accomplished.  Certainly, I want to provide more for them; to Live our Dream, Awake, but until that day, I need to learn to Cherish Every Moment.  To quit focusing on the details, to see that every minute I spend stressing the small stuff, they are growing older and days are passing me by.

With this New Year, I want to make a Resolution or an Affirmation, that I will See the Bigger Picture, Focus on the Dream, but take Time in the Moments!  If I only live for a brighter future, I may miss the journey it took to get there and that is really where the greatness lies.  For these boys, I am their world and for some reason, I never understood what a true blessing that is….. I always felt that this responsibility was often an overwhelming burden more then blessing.  Some may read that and find me callous and shallow, but I also know that there are plenty of mothers for which that statement will ring true.

For 2018, I challenge each of us to take on our burdens and bare them as blessings.  To achieve our dreams wide awake, so that each day may be joy unto itself.  Take pleasure in all things, big or small, positive or negative…..  because in this life the only thing certain is the uncertainty of each day.  It can always be better or it can always be worse…. Essentially it is what you make it, so make it the best it can be!

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50th Anniversary of Queen Mary’s Arrival in Long Beach

Published by Autumn Brooke on December 13, 2017

I pride myself on being able to write articulately, concisely, and resourcefully but today I admit that I am at a loss of words as I have been overwhelmed with humility and gratitude while reflecting on the details of the weekend.

The past two-three years of my life have been such a whirlwind full of incredible introductions, amazing events, and iconic moments that I feel blessed to have been a part.  I began working on a story idea in 2015, that became a completed novel in March of 2016. During the research of the book I spent many hours, days, weeks aboard RMS Queen Mary and am now privileged to call many that I met aboard a friend. It was through this work that I was invited to attend the 80th Anniversary of the Queen Mary’s Maiden Voyage in May of 2016. A short two months after I finished the unedited version of the novel, I was rewarded with the opportunity to meet so many of the people I had researched or only corresponded with by email or phone. I also had the opportunity to meet Randolph Churchill, the great grandson to Sir Winston Churchill as he gave the ribbon cutting speech in an exhibition on RMS Queen Mary of Churchill’s paintings.  It was at this event that I was encouraged to pursue an opportunity that I had been given to engage with a Screen Writing partner in creating the ‘Brides Aweigh’ novel in to a feature film script.

Fast forward to March of 2017 and I am posting about the now completed, but still raw version of the screen play. Took off a few months for other projects until Fall of this year, where I can now say we have a locked script and are in Post-Development, entering Pre-Production. It is in this phase of my life that I was again blessed with an invitation to attend another anniversary for my favorite Ocean Liner, RMS Queen Mary.  December 9th,1967 she arrived in Long Beach, California completing her final 39-day voyage from Southampton under the command of Captain John Treasure Jones. An iconic landmark for Long Beach and all of California for the last 50 years, RMS Queen Mary continues to fascinate, inspire, and educate all she encounters in her current state as a hotel and museum.

In the collage above are pictures that we gathered on the short 36 hour trip we made to attend this historic occasion.  As always, the Queen Mary did not fail to impress but it was the people that attended that made it so very memorable to me. I was surrounded by current lovers and supporters of the RMS Queen Mary, Sir Winston Churchill, and past passengers and crew. The first event was a dedication of “Their Finest Hour” Churchill Exhibition by Sir Winston’s great granddaughter, Jennie Churchill.  The exhibit showcases several original set pieces from the new film Darkest Hour, used to recreate secret War rooms used by Churchill in WWII. When you step below the rooms are so supremely done that it is impossible not to feel a part of history and truly understand how daunting was the responsibility held by so many to plot the defeat of Hitler. The somberness was quickly replaced by the festive and jubilant spirit to the 50th Anniversary Gala held above on the Verandah Deck. It was here that I had a better opportunity to reconnect with June Allen, one of the first War Brides of the Queen Mary, that I have grown so close to in our many interviews in research for my novel. The revered Commodore Everette spoke as historic gifts were bestowed in the new partnership between RMS Queen Mary and the International Churchill Society, even a moment shared by the daughter of the last Captain, Treasure Jones. This night also included a brief meeting of the Last Stowaway, and author of book by the same name, who hid aboard the Queen Mary as she left Southampton for the last time. Fun fact; he believed he would be going to New York, unknowing it was a trip all the way to California.

Although the Gala was coming to a close, there were many that made way to the Observation Bar to finish out the night. I am so glad that I went along because it was there that I was able to be sing along and dance on the sidelines as Jennie Churchill joined in the Karaoke fun, singing ‘Sweet Caroline’, by Neil Diamond. It made the whole night, as did sharing a few dancing turns with Jennie Churchill’s companion, Laurence Geller CBE, Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE), by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, in 2011.

The next morning, I was back on the Verandah Deck for the Remembrance Ceremony and Salute to Long Beach from the Queen Mary.  There did not seem to be a way to top the events from the night before but I was wrong.  Waiting as on the Starboard side, I was privileged to sit with June Allen, which gave us a little more time to catch up.  It was here that I was introduced to Maureen, a Southern California native, that was not only a passenger on the Queen Mary’s last cruise, but claims she was the very last passenger off the ship 50 years ago.  I wish I had more time to hear Maureen’s adventurous story but the boats were before us in the water. Jennie Churchill and WWII veteran, Ray Deveau, one of the 810,000 Allied Personnel Queen Mary Carried as the Grey Ghost in her service as troopship, laid a ‘Wreath of Remembrance’ on the water to recognize those who went to war or returned from conflict aboard the Queen Mary, observed by a moment of silence. This was followed by a Fire Boat Water Cannon that gave a Splendid Anniversary Salute to the Queen Mary, that resulted in cheers and claps as we were graced with a full rainbow, a symbol of Peace. It was a sight to behold and a perfect ending to a perfect weekend.

Below are links for more pictures and facts in relation to the Queen Mary’s 50th Arrival in Long Beach, California.

https://www.facebook.com/thequeen.mary/posts/10155145315145920

https://youtu.be/cCzG0W_Q-NI

 

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